Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs have been a focal point in higher education for years, but with the new U.S. administration taking an anti-DEI stance, colleges and universities are feeling the pressure.

If you're a student whose rights have been violated or you've been unfairly accused of wrongdoing by your university, you should defend yourself. The Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm can help you take on your school and stand up for your rights. Call 888-535-3686 or send us your information via our contact form.

Anti-DEI Comes for Colleges and Universities

The new U.S. administration is making headlines for its “anti-DEI” policy stances, but this rhetoric is more than just headline fodder. Companies across all industries are downplaying or even doing away with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives or programs in order to align with the direction the new Trump administration seems to be heading in.

Higher education is no exception. DEI and freedom of speech have been hot-button issues on college and university campuses in the U.S. for several years now—but they're taking on new importance with a new president. It's worth noting, however, that “anti-DEI” movements have been revving up at colleges across the country as states like Alabama, Texas, and Iowa pass laws to curb DEI efforts.

Students Still Have Rights

What do anti-DEI policies mean for students? Students of color, LGBTQ+ students, and disabled students are worried that rolling back policies will cut off their rights to education. While anti-DEI measures can be cause for concern, they won't do away with rights under federal legislation such as Titles VI, VII, and IX of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or the Americans with Disabilities Act.

These laws:

• Prevent discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in education or employment
• Prohibit exclusion from educational programs or activities on the basis of sex
• Require public education institutions to make reasonable accommodations for disabled students

Essentially, your rights as a student shouldn't change—so if you feel that your rights have been violated under anti-DEI measures, you might have some recourse with federal laws like those listed above.

What to Do If Your School Discriminates Against You

If your college or university discriminates against you based on your status as a protected class or unfairly accuses you of misconduct related to anti-DEI initiatives, you shouldn't just let it happen. You should fight back. You should hire the Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm to defend you. No matter what school administrators say, they don't have your best interests in mind. They're more concerned about the university's reputation and, in some cases, following the shifting political climate in this country.

You need someone on your side who understands discipline in higher education settings and is willing to hold your school to account. You need the Lento Law Firm's help because we've represented students all over the country and we're well-equipped to handle discipline policies that change from one presidential administration to the next.

If you want to protect your rights at school, call the Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or send us your information via our confidential contact form.